Like most things, fragrance is personal.
It’s how we set a mood, leave a lasting impression, and, at its best, tell a story without saying a word. Consider it your invisible signature if you will. And every so often, a collection comes along that manages to feel universally irresistible while still offering something distinct for every individual. That’s exactly what Oakcha’s The Gourmand Collection delivers: six beautifully crafted fragrances that evoke indulgence, comfort, and sophistication in equal measure.
Was I skeptical at first? Admittedly so. How often do you get a collection where each fragrance is banger after banger. But as soon as I smelled them all, I knew I shouldn’t have doubted — Oakcha has never let me down, and this time was no different.
If you’re not yet familiar with Oakcha, let me introduce you. This fragrance house has been quietly gaining a loyal following for their ability to create affordable, high-quality perfumes that don’t cut corners. Their secret? A pure-extract formulation that gives their scents an impressive 30 to 40 percent concentration of fragrance oils, making them last all day—and then some. And unlike many budget-friendly brands, Oakcha keeps their standards sky-high with clean, sustainably sourced ingredients, all while maintaining a price point that makes luxury accessible.
The Gourmand Collection is Oakcha’s latest release, and it’s every bit as delicious as the name suggests. Each of the six fragrances in this lineup takes inspiration from the comforting, edible aromas we naturally gravitate toward—caramel, vanilla, marshmallow, citrus—but with a depth and complexity that makes them feel elevated, not overly sweet.
These aren’t the cloying, syrupy sprays you might expect when you hear “gourmand.” Instead, Oakcha balances rich, dessert-like notes with woody, nutty, and even spicy accents, creating scents that are as sophisticated as they are indulgent. The lineup includes Caramel Brew, a woody, smoky blend that feels like stepping into your favorite café, and Lemon Cake, which brightens creamy almond and caramel with a pop of citrus. There’s also Marshmallow Mist, an airy, warm creation that feels soft and subtle, while Nectar Whirl leans into nutty elegance with a touch of patchouli for complexity.
Vanilla Gelato is the most classically gourmand of the bunch, delivering creamy vanilla and coconut sweetness that’s as comforting as it is luxurious. And then there’s Berry Bonbon—the standout of the collection and, quite honestly, my personal favorite.
Berry Bonbon hits every note I love in a fragrance. It opens with juicy raspberry that’s instantly attention-grabbing but never too sharp. The sweetness is balanced beautifully by nutty pistachio and almond toffee, giving it a richness that feels playful yet refined. A hint of cardamom adds a subtle spice that makes it all the more intriguing. From the first spritz, I knew it was special, and it hasn’t left my rotation since.
The appeal of gourmand fragrances goes beyond the way they smell. There’s a comfort in wearing a scent that feels indulgent, warm, and inviting. It’s a sensory reminder of the little luxuries in life—whether that’s a quiet moment with your favorite dessert or the shared joy of a perfectly baked treat. The Gourmand Collection captures that feeling in a way that’s wearable, versatile, and endlessly enjoyable.
Why I love it: What sets Oakcha apart is the brand’s ability to deliver these high-quality experiences without compromising accessibility. Their extrait de parfum formulations ensure that even a small spray goes a long way, making the 50ml or 30ml bottles a lasting investment. And at their price point, these perfumes feel like a luxury that’s as attainable as it is indulgent ($30 for 50ml).
The clean, sustainable approach is just the icing on the cake. With no parabens, no phthalates, and an emphasis on responsibly sourced ingredients, Oakcha continues to set a standard for brands seeking to offer affordable products without sacrificing ethics.
For me, Berry Bonbon is the crown jewel of the collection—a fruity, nutty, complex scent that’s perfect for daily wear or special occasions. But the beauty of The Gourmand Collection is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you gravitate toward the citrus brightness of Lemon Cake, the cozy elegance of Caramel Brew, or the creamy allure of Vanilla Gelato, there’s a fragrance here that will feel like it was made just for you.
Perfect pairings: Pairing perfumes is about finding complementary notes that enhance each other without overwhelming the senses. For a layered scent that’s as dynamic as it is addictive, Berry Bonbon from Oakcha’s Gourmand Collection pairs beautifully with complementary fragrances to create a multidimensional olfactory experience. Start with Tom Ford’s Lost Cherry as a base; the lush cherry and almond notes amplify the fruity warmth of Berry Bonbon, creating a vibrant, sweet-yet-sophisticated blend. For a touch of depth, layer it with Byredo’s Gypsy Water, whose woody juniper and sandalwood accents lend a grounding effect to Berry Bonbon’s playful raspberry and pistachio notes.
If you’re in the mood for something opulent, try Killian’s Love, Don’t Be Shy, which highlights Berry Bonbon’s nutty and toffee undertones with its rich caramel and marshmallow accords. This pairing creates a head-turning scent that’s sweet, elegant, and utterly unforgettable. For a more radiant and airy twist, spritz Maison Margiela’s Replica: Bubble Bath over Berry Bonbon. Its clean, creamy musk and soapy freshness balance the gourmand sweetness, resulting in a fresh, inviting scent perfect for daytime wear. These combinations allow Berry Bonbon’s star ingredients to shine while adding new layers of intrigue, making it the perfect foundation for your signature scent.
Oakcha’s The Gourmand Collection isn’t just a line of perfumes — it’s an invitation to indulge in the sweeter side of fragrance while knowing you’re investing in something truly worthwhile. As the holiday season approaches, these perfumes make perfect gifts for loved ones—or a well-deserved treat for yourself. After all, who says luxury has to come with a luxury price tag?
